| Summary/Abstract |
The Defence Review 2014 is informed by South Africa's international obligations and inescapable continental leadership responsibilities, such as the combating of maritime crime and piracy. It posits a level of defence ambition based on powerful deterrence, the ability to ‘reach and intervene’ to combat threats to democracy on the continent and an enduring maritime presence to defend and protect South Africa's borders and maritime interests. South Africa's degraded defence capability must furthermore be strengthened over 20 years with defence spending being gradually raised to 2.0%. The suite of naval capabilities will include maritime patrol, autonomous surface warfare, submarine warfare and a ‘blue-navy’ combat support capability to provide enduring presence. Strategic lift becomes essential for the projection and sustainment of forces on the continent.
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